Struggling to figure out how to release the ignition from the steering column. The clamp seems to be riveted on. Anyone know how to do this?

 

They are tamper proof bolts. you have to cut them off.

 

Damn, I was hoping to tamper with it without the child proof devices getting in the way.

Next question is what is the actual ignition switch? I was easily able to remove all the guts of it... the stuff the key turns. Does the actual ignition body do anything or with it work just by inserting the new guts into another ignition housing that's fried?

 

The electrical part of the ignition switch is separate from the mechanical portion. You can unscrew the switch from the back of the lock cylinder.